Virginia pine
Pinus virginiana

Virginia pine is a pioneer species capable of growing well on impoverished sites. It is native to the south-central states, where it is often seen growing on abandoned farmlands, roadsides, and other disturbed areas. Virginia pine needles are 1 1/2 to 3 inches long, and occur in bundles of 2.

Light
Virginia pine is shade intolerant. Clearcut, seed-tree, and large group selections favor regeneration. Virginia pine does not compete well when not in full sun.

Water Virginia pine is found on a wide variety of soils, and is commonly found on poor, dry sites. It seeds in rapidly following fire, and aggressively colonizes old fields or clearings.

Growth

Size
A small to medium sized tree reaching up to 70 feet tall, eventually develops a flat top sparse crown; dead, gray (sharply angled upwards) branch stubs are almost always present along the trunk.

Timber Value
Virginia pine is used for lumber, pulpwood, and Christmas trees.